HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR Job at State of Arkansas in North Little Rock

Overview

Heavy Equipment Operator at State of Arkansas Department of Military. The role involves operating, maneuvering, and maintaining large machinery used in construction, mining, and various industrial settings, on outdoor job sites under varying weather conditions. Adherence to safety standards and regulatory requirements is essential.

Position Information

Job Series: Trades – Applied Trades

Classification: Heavy Equipment Operator

Class Code: TAT05I

Pay Grade: SGS04

Salary Range: $43,088 – $63,770

Job Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating, maneuvering, and maintaining large machinery used in construction, mining, and various industrial settings. This role entails executing tasks such as grading, excavation, lifting, and loading while ensuring all equipment functions at optimal performance. Heavy Equipment Operators work on various job sites—often outdoors under varying weather conditions—and must adhere to strict safety standards and regulatory requirements to protect themselves, the team, and the public.

Primary Responsibilities

• Skillfully operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, backhoes, graders, loaders, and cranes to perform tasks including earthmoving, material handling, grading, and excavation.
• Follow detailed instructions from site supervisors and adhere to blueprints or project plans.
• Conduct thorough equipment inspections before usage to ensure all systems function correctly and safely.
• Report and document any discrepancies, damages, or maintenance needs following equipment use.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance (e.g., cleaning, lubricating, and checking fluid levels) on machinery.
• Diagnose and resolve minor mechanical issues or coordinate with maintenance teams when specialized repairs are necessary.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment and compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Monitor job sites to ensure safe operating conditions, mitigate risks, and swiftly react to any emergencies.
• Work closely with construction or project managers to coordinate tasks and adjust operations according to project requirements.
• Maintain clear communication with team members regarding operational status, equipment needs, or safety concerns.
• Log operational hours, maintenance activities, and any incidents or repairs, ensuring accurate record-keeping for regulatory and quality control purposes.

Knowledge And Skills

• Excellent understanding of mechanical systems, including the ability to read technical documentation and blueprints.
• Physical stamina, ability to sit for extended periods, and occasional lifting; exposure to harsh weather conditions.
• Effective verbal and written communication to ensure safety protocols and coordinate with team members.
• Experience working outdoors at dynamic construction or industrial sites; may require extended hours depending on project timelines.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Completion of a vocational or technical training program specializing in heavy equipment operation.
• Proven track record of safely operating different types of equipment and familiarity with site-specific operational procedures.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license (with any necessary endorsements).

Licensure/Certifications

N/A. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.